semblable

semblable

A child finds a leaf that is semblable to a maple leaf.

Definition

  1. Noun:

    • A person or thing that is similar or analogous to another: "semblable" refers to a counterpart or someone of comparable nature or kind.
    • A companion or associate: In older usage, it can mean a fellow being or a peer.

  2. Adjective (archaic):

    • Resembling; similar; having a likeness: "semblable" describes something that is like or analogous to something else.
Usage Examples

  • Noun:

    • In the novel, the protagonist found his semblable in a mysterious stranger. (A person who is very similar to him.)
    • The two paintings are exact semblables in composition and color. (They are counterparts or duplicates.)

  • Adjective:

    • The ancient text describes a creature semblable to a dragon. (A creature resembling a dragon.)
    • Their fates were semblable, both ending in exile. (Their fates were similar.)
Advanced Usage

  • "semblable and selfsame": A phrase used in older English to emphasize identical nature or close likeness.

    • He spoke of the twins as semblable and selfsame in character. (They were nearly identical in personality.)

  • "to find one's semblable": To encounter a person who is one's equal or mirror.

    • She felt a deep connection when she found her semblable in the poetry club. (She found someone very like herself.)
Variants and Related Words

  • Semblance (n): an outward appearance or resemblance.

    • There was a semblance of order in the chaos. (A superficial appearance of order.)

  • Semble (v, archaic): to appear or seem.

    • It sembles to me that the plan is flawed. (It appears to me.)
Synonyms
  • Counterpart: a person or thing that corresponds to another.
  • Likeness: a similar or identical form or appearance.
  • Analog: something that is comparable in function or nature.
Related Idioms

  • "bear semblable to" (archaic): to have a resemblance to.

    • The building bears semblable to a medieval castle. (It looks like a medieval castle.)

  • "in semblable wise" (archaic): in a similar manner.

    • He acted in semblable wise to his predecessor. (He acted in a similar way.)
Phrasal Verbs

No common phrasal verbs exist for "semblable" as it is primarily a noun or adjective.

Related Idioms
  • "semblable and self": A rare expression meaning one's own likeness or double.
    • In the mirror, he saw his semblable and self. (He saw his own reflection.)